Skeletal Muscle Contractility, Self-reported Pain and Tissue Sensitivity in Females With Neck/Shoulder Pain and Trapezius MFTrPs

Skeletal Muscle Contractility, Self-reported Pain and Tissue Sensitivity in Females With Neck/Shoulder Pain and Upper Trapezius Myofascial Trigger Points- a Randomized Intervention Study

In relation to Myofascial Triggerpoints (MFTrPs) of the upper Trapezius, this study will explore muscle contractility characteristics, the occurrence of post-intervention muscle soreness and the effect of dry needling on muscle contractile characteristics and clinical outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• A clinically relevant MFTrP of the upper Trapezius musculature
• Self-reported pain of ≥3 on an eleven-point numerical pain rating scale (NRS-101).
• BMI less than 31

Exclusion Criteria:

• a history of chronic, systemic pathology (e.g. hemophilia)
• pre-existing neck/shoulder pathology/surgical procedures,
• clinical depression
• health-related legal action
• pregnant
• anti-inflammatory and/or chronic pain medication
• had received dry needling for a shoulder/neck disorder within 6 months prior to the study (to raise the level of patient naiveté) suffered from needle phobia